Functional design elements such as a hood bulge and larger air intakes give the CTS-V a more aggressive look than the standard CTS. Although Steve Levine dismissed the car as “a souped-up Chevy with bad plastic surgery,” Wayne Mailloux said it “drives over the speed limit, under the radar.”

Three drive modes adjust the shift points on the 8-speed automatic transmission, the throttle and steering responses, and the ride quality. The car is also equipped with Magnetic Ride Control, General Motors’ adaptive suspension system that uses sensors to read the road conditions and instantly adjust the damping. “It’s the first Cadillac I would consider buying,” said Roy Arnold. “It’s surprisingly good.”